Energy

Energy is a special power that helps everything in our world work. It comes from an old word in Ancient Greek that means "activity." We can see energy when something moves, gives off heat, or makes light.

There are many kinds of energy. When something moves, it has kinetic energy. An object held high up has potential energy because of its position. Energy is also stored in the tiny parts that make up food and fuel—this is called chemical energy. The warmth and light from the Sun are also forms of energy.

All living things, like plants, animals, and humans, need energy to grow, move, and stay alive. Plants get energy from the Sun. Animals, including us, get energy from eating plants or other animals. The whole planet runs on energy from the Sun, which helps create weather and keeps everything going.

Energy cannot be created or destroyed—it can only change its shape. For example, a falling object turns its stored energy into moving energy. This rule helps us understand how many things in our world work, from simple toys to big machines.